State Warns of Identity Theft Scam
(Albany, NY-AP) -- New York state officials say they're investigating a Canadian-run scam that tries to sell people insurance against identity theft.
The state Consumer Protection Board says the scam involves telemarketers who often target the elderly with fast-taking sales pitches.
Identity theft is an increasingly common crime, but a scam to protect against it is new.
Officials say the callers offer to sell identification protection but ask questions that could lead to vital personal information being divulged.
The warning comes on the heels of a high-profile arrest in New York City this week. A Brooklyn restaurant worker has been accused of obtaining confidential financial data from celebrities including Steven Speilberg, Oprah Winfrey, Martha Stewart, Ross Perot and Warren Buffett.
(Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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